Fat forms the outer membrane of all nervous system cells, and is therefore essential for proper nervous system structure and function. Fat is found in a variety of forms. However, the outer membrane of nervous tissue is made up of essential fatty acids -- for example, omega-3 and omega-6. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, specifically ALA, EPA and DHA. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids maintains the nervous system and lessens neurological disease.
Fetal and Child Development
Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy benefits neurodevelopment of the fetus. Once the baby is born, omega-3 fatty acid intake is most beneficial up to the age of 2. However, supplementation of fish oil in children before the age of 10 also benefits neurodevelopment and enhances listening comprehension in some children, according to the International Omega-3 Learning and Education Consortium for Health and Science. The recommended daily allowance for omega-3 fatty acids in children has not been established, so be sure to consult your doctor before giving your child EPA or DHA supplements.
Anxiety and Depression
A typical Western diet is characterized by too much consumption of omega-6 fatty acids and too little consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. This imbalance between the essential fatty acids can trigger anxiety and depression. Although specific dose requirements have yet to be established as of 2011, depression and anxiety decrease when taking 1 to 6 g of fish oil per day, according to the University of Minnesota.
Neurological Disease
Fish oil supplementation decreases the adverse effects of Alzheimer's disease, thus reducing cognitive impairment and dementia. Research indicates that DHA, more than EPA, reduces neuronal degradation in dementia disorders. Fish oil also benefits schizophrenia patients by improving cognitive function. Schizophrenia patients may not be able to convert APA to DHA, so the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends supplementing with DHA.
Caution
Fish oil may interact with certain drugs, such as blood-thinning medications, diabetes medications and anti-inflammatory drugs, so you should take fish oil under the supervision of a physician. Fish oil may contain heavy metals, such as mercury, so if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a physician before taking a fish oil supplement. And be sure to purchase this supplement only from a reputable manufacturer who tests its product for heavy metal and chemical content.
References
- International Omega-3 Learning and Education Consortium for Health and Science; Dietary Intakes of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA) Benefit Young Children; Dr. Bruce J. Holub
- University of Minnesota; Anxiety and Depression; Karen Lawson, M.D., and Archelle Georgiou, M.D.; March 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acid; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 2009
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